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Lopressor
Pronounced: low-PRESS-or
Generic name: Metoprolol tartrate
Other brand name: Toprol-XL
Lopressor, a type of medication known as a beta-blocker, is used in the treatment of high blood pressure, angina pectoris (chest pain, usually caused by lack of oxygen to the heart due to clogged arteries), and heart attack. When prescribed for high blood pressure, it is effective when used alone or in combination with other high blood pressure medications. ). Beta-blockers work by affecting the response to nerve impulses in certain parts of the body. As a result, they decrease the heart's need for blood and oxygen by reducing its workload. They also help the heart to beat more regularly.
Occasionally doctors prescribe Lopressor for the treatment of aggressive behavior, prevention of migraine headache, and relief of temporary anxiety.
An extended-release form of this drug, called Toprol-XL, is prescribed for high blood pressure, angina, and heart failure.
ADULTS
*Do not stop taking metoprolol without talking to your doctor first. If metoprolol is stopped suddenly, it may cause chest pain or heart attack in some people.
Doses of Lopressor should be individualized by your doctor. It should be taken with or immediately following meals.
High Blood Pressure
The usual starting dosage of Lopressor is a total of 100 milligrams a day taken in 1 or 2 doses, whether taken alone or with a diuretic. The initial dosage of Toprol-XL ranges from 50 to 100 milligrams once a day. Your doctor may gradually increase the dosage up to 400 milligrams a day. Generally, the effectiveness of each dosage increase will be seen within a week.
Angina Pectoris
The usual starting dosage is a total of 100 milligrams a day taken in 2 doses of Lopressor or a single dose of Toprol-XL. Your doctor may gradually increase the dosage up to 400 milligrams a day.
Generally, the effectiveness of each dosage increase will be seen within a week. If treatment is to be discontinued, Lopressor should be withdrawn gradually over a period of 1 to 2 weeks.
Heart Attack
Lopressor can be used for treatment of heart attack both in the hospital during the early phases and after the individual's condition has stabilized. Your doctor will determine the dosage according to your needs.
Heart Failure
The recommended starting dose of Toprol-XL is 25 milligrams once daily for 2 weeks (12.5 milligrams in severe cases). Your doctor may decide to increase the dose every 2 weeks up to the highest level that works without side effects. The maximum recommended dose is 200 milligrams daily. |
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